Farms (Overhead Power Cables)

asked the Secretary of State for Energy whether, in view of the increasing height of agricultural machinery and equipment, he is satisfied with the present regulations about overhead power cables around farms and farmbuildings; and if he will make a statement.

I am satisfied that the statutory clearances from the ground of overhead electricity lines are generally appropriate. The safe use of farm machinery in the vicinity of such lines is kept under review by the National Farmers Union and the electricity supply industry, and also by the Health and Safety Executive and my own engineering inspectorate, both of which statutorily receive reports of accidents. It is generally
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agreed that the most effective and efficient way of reducing the very small number of farming accidents due to contact with electricity lines is by encouraging safe working methods. Much publicity and other help are available to that end.